IMMIGRATION UPDATES

Last updated September 16, 2021

Policies Impacting Migrants During COVID-19
As we grapple with the fourth wave locally and the effects of COVID-19 as part of the global community, the policies that impact migrants have particularly been in flux. Below is a summary of the Government of Canada’s response to this health crisis in terms of immigration and refugee policies as of September 7th 2021. 

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INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
• Border Changes:
​Effective September 7, foreign nationals who qualify for the fully vaccinated traveller exemption can enter Canada for discretionary travel.
• Check if you qualify for the exemption

IMMIGRATION AND REFUGEE BOARD (IRB) 
• Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB): As of January 18, 2021, the IRB is adopting a remote-only hearings model for the foreseeable future. Only urgent and particularly sensitive cases will be considered for in-person hearings on a case by case basis. As a further safety measure, the IRB will not be accepting documents in person for any division during this time. Documents must be submitted to the IRB electronically using MyCase portal, email (where applicable) or through Canada Post epost Connect. Fax and regular mail/courier will continue to be accepted but should only be used when electronic options are not available.

IMMIGRATION, REFUGEES AND CITIZENSHIP CANADA (IRCC) APPLICATION PROCESSING
The processing times for many applications have been significantly delayed. Since many local offices have been closed or opened for limited services only, please contact your specific provider to see their most up-to-date COVID-19 protocol. You can continue to submit a Case Specific Enquiry via the IRCC Webform to ask questions about your file and search for the updated processing time for your application category.

SPECIAL MEASURES FOR AFGAN APPLICATIONS
Priority Processing for: 

• family reunification (sponsorship) 
• permanent residence, 
• temporary residence: 

• If you’re an Afghan national currently in Canada and applying to extend your temporary resident status; or  
• If you’re an Afghan national outside of Canada and you’re an eligible family member dependent of a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or person registered under the Indian Act